Options for Finishing Basement Walls

Moisture Barrier

• No matter what type of finishing product you choose for your basement walls, you will need to begin by applying a moisture barrier. Roll, brush or spray on a good-quality moisture barrier such as elastomeric liquid rubber waterproofing sealant, carefully following the directions on the label. Liquid rubber flows into cracks and crevices to seal any current or potential leaks, and dries to an elastic membrane that resists cracking and is impervious to water. Let the moisture barrier cure thoroughly.

Insulation

• A warm basement starts with good insulation. One approach is to attach extruded polystyrene insulation boards to the concrete walls, using an adhesive approved for use on Styrofoam and sealing the joints. In very cold climates, this type of insulation is used in addition to batting or foam insulation panels if you plan to frame the basement walls. If you live in a milder climate, batts alone are generally sufficient.

Framing

• In order to attach drywall or paneling to concrete walls, you will need to construct a wood frame. Basement wall framing is constructed with 2-by-4 boards at the top and bottom of the wall and 2-by-4 studs placed 16 inches apart on center. The frame is screwed to the concrete wall by drilling a pilot hole in the concrete with a hammer drill and a carbide masonry bit. This is the time to install the insulation material you have chosen and run any electrical wiring needed for your completed project.

Wall Surface

• Several types of paneling are available and easily installed to the wall frame with paneling nails. Paneling comes finished so only trim is needed after the paneling is hung. Attaching drywall to the frame means you will have a wide variety of finishing option at your disposal, including paint, texture and wallpaper or any combination of the three, along with a virtually unlimited number of trim and accent choices. A variety of more complicated options are also available, including ceramic tile, faux stones, brick and stucco.

Wall Systems

• If the physical, monetary and creative demands of other options are not right for you, opt for a wall system. Wall system panels have insulation and a finished vinyl surface in off-white or beige. No framing is required because matching battens snap into place between panels. This type of system incorporates waterproof plastic baseboard and crown molding trim pieces.